Bike Dojo kicks off fundraiser for kids

SANTA CRUZ - Bike Dojo, a cycling center downtown, has launched a new fundraising effort designed to provide bicycles to children whose families can't afford them.

Project B.I.K.E., which stands for Believe In Kids' Exercise, encourages community members to donate a bike regardless of its condition. In return, they will receive free cycling and spinning classes at the center for a month.

And with every new membership, the company's owners will donate a bike to a child.

"We know a lot of people who don't know what to do with their kid's bike once they have outgrown them," said Rob Mylls, founder of Bike Dojo. "Instead of having them sit in the garage or outside, now you can recycle them for a good cause."

Bike Dojo will accept used bikes or pick them up. The company will then repair bikes and teach recipients how to ride.

"Our goal is to get children riding bikes with proper safety equipment and safety knowledge and to have more children riding and getting exercise," Mylls said.